Defensive end Mike Daniels was the Packers' best defensive lineman last year. He finished second on the team with 6.5 sacks despite lacking ideal size for an end in the 3-4 scheme, reports the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.

"I thought Mike Daniels took a big step last year," defensive coordinator Dom Capers told the paper. "He was our most productive guy on the defensive line last year. I think he'll continue to improve.

"Mike's one of the hardest workers we have," Capers added. "He's got a great defensive temperament. He's strong. He's explosive. We hope he can just pick up where he left off last year."

Daniels, 25, is entering his third season. He played in every game last year, making 23 tackles.

Packers 24-year-old defensive lineman Mike Daniels will not allow his relative youth to prevent him from assuming a leadership role. Daniels played in 48 percent of the snaps this season, but still finished second on the team with 6 1/2 snaps.

"I'm not afraid to step up as a leader now," he said. "I'm in my third year. I've made some plays. I've earned some respct in the locker room. I feel as though it's time for me to fully let my personality go. Just be myself. There's nothing holding me back now. I'm a young guy, but I'm considered a vet and vets can speak."

Daniels started just one regular-season game, but added a start in the playoff loss to San Francisco.